Sources close to both governors revealed that the defections, which were expected to take place this week, might be delayed due to internal wrangling in the Enugu chapter of the APC.
In a move seen as preparation for Mbah’s entry, the APC National Working Committee (NWC) last Thursday dissolved the Enugu State Working Committee (SWC) and inaugurated a caretaker committee headed by Ben Nwoye. While the new committee has expressed readiness to receive Mbah, the dissolved SWC insists it remains in charge.
In Bayelsa, Diri’s reported plan to cross over to the APC has sparked division among political stakeholders. Some see it as a strategic alignment with the central government to attract more federal presence to the state, while others describe it as a self-serving move that adds no real political value.
A source close to the Bayelsa Government House confirmed Diri’s intention but said the October 14 date circulating in the media may not be accurate. “The governor has made up his mind to leave the PDP. He will announce it himself soon,” the source said.
The APC leadership in Bayelsa, through its state chairman Chief Dennis Otiotio, said the party is ready to welcome Diri and any other politician willing to support President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda ahead of 2027.
Meanwhile, Ijaw leader Elder Joseph Ambakederimo described Diri’s planned switch as a “welcome development,” arguing that aligning with the ruling party would give the Ijaw people better access to federal opportunities and political influence.
However, PDP officials in both states have remained silent on the matter, refusing to confirm or deny the reports.
